For over 30 years, Pierres Pointes was the highlight for ski-crazy freaks. The piste from Pierres Pointes to Col du Pillon was open from the 60s, offering a slope of up to 86%. In 1999, it was closed. Glacier 3000 wants to reopen this piste for the winter of 2020/21. "We want to expand the piste network. Skiers don't come to the glacier for the train ride, but for the best snow conditions and interesting pistes", explains Bernhard Tschannen, CEO of Glacier 3000. 

A connecting tunnel

Just below the Diablerets Cabane, a 265-metre long tunnel will be built for this very purpose. It connects the Martisberg piste with the descent to the Col du Pillon. Skiers will glide through the 2.4-metre wide and 3-metre high tunnel on a ski surface made of plastic. The two-kilometre piste to the Col du Pillon is only suitable for good skiers because it still has an extreme gradient of up to 86%.

A piste for freeriders

"The downhill will continue to offer many thrills," promises Bernhard Tschannen. The first day of a snowfall, it’s well-secured, but not prepared. So, after a snowfall, you’ll ski through knee-deep, fresh snow. This will continue to appeal to freeriders who’ve been on the Pierres Pointes up to now. 

An objection 

When setting up the project, Glacier 3000 deliberately chose a variant that had little impact on nature. "The tunnel aperture can hardly be seen from below," indicates Tschannen. Pro Natura placed an objection at the launch of the project. “We’re in the middle of negotiations and hope to find a solution soon”, informs the managing director. If everything goes according to plan, the first winter sportsmen will soon be skiing through the tunnel. These innovations on the Glacier will cost CHF 2.2m, which also includes a cavern for a snow groomer during tunnel construction. 

Based on AvS/Blanca Burri
Translated by Justine Hewson